La Fortuna

A lively tourist town at the base of Arenal Volcano and the main hub for adventure activities and thermal springs. Visitors use it as a base for waterfalls, hot springs, zip-lining, rafting and volcano tours.

Things to do

• La Fortuna Waterfall — Descend around 500 steps to a powerful 70-meter waterfall where you can swim in the cool pool at its base.
• Arenal Volcano National Park — Hike the trails across old lava flows with views of the near-perfectly conical Arenal Volcano.
• Tabacón Hot Springs — Soak in naturally heated thermal rivers and pools fed by the volcano amid lush gardens.
• Zip-lining over the rainforest — Fly across canopy cables and canyons with outfitters offering long lines and Superman-style flights.
• White-water rafting on the Balsa River — Paddle Class II-III rapids through jungle-lined river valleys near town.
• Río Celeste day trip — Travel to Tenorio Volcano National Park to see the surreal turquoise river and waterfall.
• Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges — Walk a loop of suspension bridges through primary rainforest with birdwatching and volcano vistas.
• La Fortuna town center and church park — Stroll the central park facing the white church with the volcano rising directly behind it.

Food to try

• Casado — A hearty typical plate of rice, black beans, plantains, salad and your choice of meat, found in local sodas.
• Gallo pinto — The classic Costa Rican breakfast of stir-fried rice and beans, often served with eggs, tortillas and natilla.
• Olla de carne — A comforting beef and root-vegetable stew with yuca, plantain and chayote.
• Fresh tropical fruit batidos — Blended fruit shakes made with mango, guava, blackberry (mora) or cas, ordered with water or milk.
• Café chorreado — Locally grown coffee brewed through a cloth sock filter, a staple morning drink.
• Ceviche — Chilled marinated fish or seafood with lime, cilantro and onion, popular as a casual bite.

Local customs & good to know

• Cash and colones help — Many small sodas and vendors prefer Costa Rican colones or cash, though dollars and cards are widely accepted at tourist businesses.
• Pura vida attitude — The phrase 'pura vida' is used as a greeting, thanks and general good vibe, so expect a relaxed, unhurried pace.
• Book tours with certified operators — Use reputable, insured guides for hot springs, rafting and volcano hikes, and confirm what's included before paying.
• Rain gear and afternoon showers — This is a rainforest region, so carry a light rain jacket and plan outdoor activities for the morning.

Nearby

• La Fortuna Waterfall — 6 km
• Arenal Volcano — 6 km
• Venado Caves — 16 km
• Monteverde Cloud Forest (Puntarenas) — 25 km